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Commission approves 68‑unit Cane Ridge specific plan after residents press for more outreach and buffering
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a specific plan for a 68‑unit multifamily development on Canidge/Cane Ridge Road with conditions; nearby residents asked for more in‑person meetings, stronger buffers and NDOT coordination on traffic and safety before final plan approval.
The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of a specific plan to allow 68 multifamily units on a 6.6‑acre parcel along Canidge (Cane Ridge) Road, accepting staff conditions and the applicant’s commitment to coordinate roadway improvements with NDOT.
Staff explained the plan proposes three townhome unit types, limits building heights to two‑ and three‑story forms consistent with the T3 suburban neighborhood‑evolving policy, and includes B2 landscape buffers on three property edges plus internal open spaces. The SP would require MCSP‑standard streetscape improvements, new sidewalks along Cane Ridge Road and a private internal street network.
Residents who spoke during the public hearing (representing Cambridge Farms and adjacent properties) asked for a deferral to hold additional in‑person meetings, voiced concerns about inadequate buffers compared with nearby projects, described heavy congestion on Canidge Road (including school‑period bottlenecks and overflow from I‑24), and flagged an unverified cemetery claim. Dr. Emily Burgess, whose property directly abuts the site, urged more engagement and larger buffers.
The applicant (Casey Kaiser, Meritage Homes) said two public meetings were held (October and January) and that the team added plantings and is coordinating NDOT improvements and right‑of‑way dedications; a condition requires NDOT coordination before final approval. Commissioners asked Metro Historic to check cemetery claims; staff reported Metro Historic could not verify a cemetery at the location and noted state law requirements if a cemetery is discovered later.
Commissioners expressed sympathy for neighbor concerns and encouraged more outreach prior to council hearings, but most agreed the plan meets policy. Commissioner Henley moved to accept staff’s recommendation to approve with conditions and disapprove without all conditions; the motion passed by voice vote. The project will proceed to final site‑plan review and council consideration with the conditions and required agency coordination.
